20070812 Ver 2_NC revoking Alcoa Certification_20101201

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Published Wed, Dec 01, 2010 01:35 PM
Modified Wed, Dec 01, 2010 02:26 PM
NC revoking Alcoa certification for Yadkin dams
RALEIGH, N.C. North Carolina regulators revoked a key certification provided in Alcoa Inc.'s bid to
operate dams along the Yadkin River, claiming Wednesday that the company intentionally withheld
information.
The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources said the company failed to
disclose details on the project's ability to meet the state's water quality standards. Officials said that
omission came to light in a hearing about the certification.
The process of certification relies on applicants submitting accurate and comprehensive information to
the division," said Coleen Sullins, director of the Division of Water Quality. "When they do not,
revocation is warranted."
Alcoa subsidiary Alcoa Power Generating Inc. said in a statement that it never withheld any "material
information." The company plans to immediately challenge the state's revocation.
"We do not believe the state's decision is justified or appropriate," said Rick Bowen, president of Alcoa
Energy.
A withdrawal of North Carolina's certification would essentially block Alcoa from getting federal
approval in their contentious bid to operate four dams for up to 50 more years. The state Division of
Water Quality initially approved Alcoa's plans last year on condition that it include a $240 million
guarantee that Alcoa make improvements to its system.
The permit is opposed by a variety of state leaders, including Gov. Beverly Perdue, who hope to regain
control over the dams and the electricity they produce.
http://www.newsobserver.coml2010/12/01 /v-print/8371971apnewsbreak-nc-to-try-revokin... 12/1/2010